Set against the rolling landscapes of Sonoma — one of Northern California’s most celebrated wine regions — this reimagined home is a study in balance. It’s where sustainability meets soul, and where a distinctly Mediterranean sensibility finds its place within a Californian context.
Originally designed by architect J. Lamont Langworthy and later purchased in 2014, the home had strong architectural bones but required a complete rethink. Its layout felt dated, its systems inefficient, and its connection to the surrounding landscape underdeveloped. Enter interior designer Nikki Haramoglis, founder of Westward Atelier, alongside Bay Area architect Kate Stechschulte — a collaboration that would transform the property into a quietly expressive, fully electric retreat.
Reworking The Bones For Modern Living
At the heart of the redesign was a desire to live more consciously. Solar panels now power the home entirely, aligning its environmental performance with the natural beauty of its 14-acre setting — complete with its own lake. But sustainability here is not a feature; it’s a foundation.
Equally transformative was the reworking of space. The kitchen, once closed off, now opens seamlessly into the main living area, anchored by a sculptural natural stone island designed for gathering.
A new north-facing main suite offers privacy and comfort, while the former bedroom has been reimagined as a communal space that captures expansive outdoor views. Two additional offices and a total of 13 doors leading outside reinforce a fluid, indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
Opening Up To The Landscape
This sense of openness is central to the home’s identity. “With walls of glass as the focal point, our goal was to bring the outdoors in, allowing nature itself to serve as the artwork,” says Nikki Haramoglis. It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply in South African homes, where the relationship between interior and landscape is often just as important as the architecture itself.
A Mediterranean Spirit, Reimagined
The aesthetic language, however, draws from much further afield. Haramoglis’ Greek heritage plays a defining role in the home’s look and feel. “My Greek heritage, shaped by early childhood travels to Greece until now, has deeply influenced my design sensibility in ways that feel both instinctive and intentional,” she explains.
“I am drawn to the quiet harmony of natural materials, the interplay of light and shadow on whitewashed surfaces, and the balance between simplicity and richness that defines so much of Greek visual culture,” she continues. “I absorbed an appreciation for proportion, texture, and timelessness—where every element feels purposeful yet effortless.”
A Palette Of Quiet, Natural Beauty
That influence is evident in every detail. Bathrooms are finished in Italian terracotta tiles and Moroccan Tadelakt plaster, while oak cabinetry and bronze accents add warmth and depth. Open shelving displays a curated collection of Southwest pottery, and brass lighting introduces a soft, sculptural glow to the home’s double-volume spaces.
“One of the largest objectives was to capture all the natural light possible,” the team explains. “We selected the most quiet palette possible as the goal was to feel as though you are living amongst the natural landscape.” Off-white tones, natural oak and textured plaster walls create an atmosphere that feels both grounded and expansive.
Layered Interiors With A Global Story
Haramoglis expands on this approach: “We were intentional with every decision to ensure the main rooms felt quiet and grounded in natural materials—wood, glass, marble, brass, oak. A mix of soft goods added warmth, texture, and subtle interest while remaining neutral and inviting.”
Furnishings were sourced with equal care, drawing from a global mix of new and vintage pieces. “We scoured through containers from Italy, France, England, as well as properties in New Mexico, and California historic sites to bring items with an eclectic feel to the home,” says Haramoglis. The result is a layered interior that feels collected over time rather than styled in a single moment.
Designed For Gathering And Hosting
Despite its considered design, the home never feels precious. It was always intended as a place for gathering. “The homeowners are gracious hosts who love welcoming guests to stay,” Haramoglis notes, a sentiment reflected in generous dining areas and relaxed communal spaces.
Ultimately, this Sonoma home is not defined by any one feature, but by its cohesion. It’s a space where architecture, interiors and landscape work in quiet harmony — where sustainability enhances rather than dictates design, and where a Mediterranean spirit finds new expression in the Californian countryside.
Credits
Interior design: Westward Atelier, Instagram @westwardatelier
Furniture in partnership with The Well Montecito, Instagram @thewellsummerland,
Architecture: Kate Stechschulte
Photos: Bess Friday, Instagram: @bessfriday
Styling: Michele Gasparini, Instagram: @mgasparini
